For our 6th annual Highlighting feature, we're doing things a little differently. Normally, we select our top 25 most anticipated releases for the whole year, but we realize that it's tough to really gauge EVERYTHING that may release throughout a given year when we're making the list in January. So, for 2012, we're splitting the year into TWO pieces -- January to June and July to December (Click here for Part 2). Also, we're making each list 15 artists/releases for a total of 30 in 2012. So, without further ado, we give you Highlighting First-Half 2012!

	5 of 15   #5. The Classic Crime Phoenix Release Date: August 14, 2012 Though I'm in the party that places 2010's Vagabonds in the "average" category, those who liked it really liked it. The Classic Crime is an ingenious alternative rock band, and pairing their raw passion with their recently attained indie-status makes their fourth full-length record a highly anticipated one. They are entirely capable of creating something really special in 2012.         - Roger Gelwicks I liked Vagabonds. It was one of those albums that struck the heartstrings of some Classic Crime fans, but got listened to once or twice by others. The good news is that it didn't deter their fans from remaining fans. So while I am slightly surprised to see the band at the number five spot here, in the end, I fully expect their coming album to be one of the better rock albums of 2012.         - Scott Fryberger It really doesn't get any better when it comes to meaningful alternative rock tunes. The guys from Seattle are simply the best. Each new release makes that case stronger and stronger and I am so stoked to hear their new album.         - Kevin Hoskins Vagabonds was a stellar release, though some think it fell short of The Silver Cord. Vagabonds is my personal favorite and I can only hope they show growth and release their best album to date. Look for this one to be an album of the year candidate.         - Michael Weaver Though it wasn't quite at the level of The Silver Cord, I really enjoyed Vagabonds for what it was, and always look forward to new music from The Classic Crime. They continue to bring something fresh and fun to the alternative rock scene, and their next album should be no exception.         - Jen Rose Visit our The Classic Crime page for more information about them... 2012 Countdown: 15 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 ©January, 2012 Jesusfreakhideout.com